The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a significant alert regarding the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) following an uptick in cases across the globe. As of December 21, 2025, the WHO reported a total of 19 confirmed cases, which include four fatalities. Of these cases, 17 occurred in Saudi Arabia, while two were recorded in France. This warning comes as adenovirus infections also rise worldwide, prompting health authorities to advise heightened vigilance among the public.
In its latest update, the WHO indicated that between June 4 and December 21, 2025, the Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia documented seven cases of MERS-CoV infection, resulting in two deaths. Although these recent cases do not alter the overall risk assessment—remaining moderate at both global and regional levels—they highlight the ongoing threat posed by the virus in certain areas. MERS-CoV primarily infects dromedary camels, with sporadic transmissions to humans.
New Coronavirus Discovery Raises Concerns
In a related development, researchers have identified a new bat-borne coronavirus in Brazil. The implications of this discovery for human health remain unclear, but it has drawn attention from experts in the field. Symptoms associated with MERS include fever, coughing, shortness of breath, diarrhea, and vomiting, with severe cases potentially leading to fatal outcomes. Currently, no vaccine exists for MERS-CoV.
Researchers from São Paulo and Ceará collaborated with colleagues at Hong Kong University in the study that unveiled the new coronavirus. According to PhD candidate Bruna Stefanie, who contributed to the research, “Right now we aren’t sure it can infect humans, but we detected parts of the virus’s spike protein suggesting potential interaction with the receptor used by MERS-CoV.” The findings were published in the Journal of Medical Virology.
The study analyzed a comprehensive collection of 423 bats from 16 different species. Researchers took oral and rectal samples, ultimately identifying the new coronavirus in an insect-eating bat. This discovery has raised alarms among scientists, given the genetic similarities to known strains of MERS-CoV found in both humans and camels.
The research revealed a striking 72% genetic similarity between the newly discovered coronavirus and the genome of MERS-CoV. Particularly concerning is the spike protein of this new virus, which exhibited a 71.74% similarity to that of the MERS virus, the key component responsible for binding to host cells.
As health officials continue to monitor these developments, the emphasis remains on public awareness and preparedness. Both adults and children are urged to remain alert to symptoms and seek medical advice if they experience any signs of respiratory illness. The WHO is closely tracking the situation as it evolves, underscoring the need for global cooperation in addressing potential health threats.
